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SASSA's means-test process has been slammed by pensioners, who see it as an invasion of their financial privacy. They claim the process is unnecessary, given the already low grant amount of R2 400 per month.
Marlini Naicker, a commenter on The South African's Facebook page, raised the issue directly, writing:
'It's a shame the grant is less than they want to go through our bank accounts to see how much money we have, and if we get help, there are problems we can’t survive on the grant.' She added a pointed challenge to officials: 'Maybe they must switch places and see if ministers can survive on a R2 400 grant.'
The means-test process requires applicants and recipients to disclose financial information, including bank balances, to determine or maintain eligibility for grants. For many beneficiaries, the process is viewed as invasive, particularly when weighed against a grant amount many say is already insufficient to cover basic costs.
Nola Van Loggerenberg, yet another commenter, had already stated that 'no one can survive on R2 400 a month, it is just impossible.' The reaction beneath The South African's article reflects a broader discomfort among grant recipients: the sense that they are subjected to close financial oversight while receiving support many describe as barely enough to survive on.
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Key Facts
• The Older Persons Grant and Disability Grant are subject to SASSA's means-test process. • The grant amount is R2 400 per month. • The means-test process requires applicants and recipients to disclose financial information, including bank balances. • Nola Van Loggerenberg stated that 'no one can survive on R2 400 a month, it is just impossible.' • Marlini Naicker suggested that officials try living on the grant amount before making decisions.
Pensioners have expressed their frustration with the grant amount, pointing out that R2 400 is barely enough to cover basic costs. They have also criticized SASSA's means-test process, which they see as an invasion of their financial privacy.
In a context that is relevant to all South Africans, the grant system's inadequacy is affecting a significant sector of the population. The lack of access to essential services due to financial constraints is widespread, and pensioners are not exempt from this reality.
SASSA has yet to respond to the criticism surrounding its means-test process. The agency has been under pressure to review the grant amount and address concerns around the means-test process.
The SASSA grant survey, which offers an opportunity for beneficiaries to share their stories and win R2 000, is a way for the public to engage with the agency on these issues. By participating in the survey, beneficiaries can contribute to meaningful discussions around grant reform and advocate for more effective support systems.